Understanding the Irish Troubles: Dr Thomas Leahy. (Ep.3)

What happens when a world war collides with centuries of unresolved tension?

In the final episode of our mini-series on the Irish Troubles,  Dr Thomas Leahy guides us from the outbreak of the First World War through to the conditions that ignited what we now call the Troubles. This is the turning point — where long-standing fears, loyalties, and political gambles harden into something far more dangerous.

We explore how Home Rule was postponed by global conflict, why armed movements emerged on all sides, and how moments like the Easter Rising reshaped Irish and British politics forever. Along the way, we ask difficult questions: when does resistance become rebellion, and how do historical memories turn into modern conflict?

This episode connects the dots between past and present, revealing how decisions made under pressure echoed across generations.

🎧 In this episode, you’ll discover:

• Why World War I changed everything for Ireland
• How the Easter Rising shocked Britain and divided Irish opinion
• The roots of partition and the birth of Northern Ireland
• How competing ideas of loyalty, identity, and power set the stage for the Troubles

If you want to understand how and why the Troubles began, this episode is essential listening.

👉 If you haven’t already, we recommend listening to Episodes 1 and 2 first for full context.

If you enjoy the show, please consider leaving a review and following Undercurrent Stories on your podcast platform — it really helps others find the series.

Links: https://drthomasdmleahy.com/#/

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